<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

City of Yarra

Commercial Property Hub is a user-friendly digital platform that streamlines the process of finding suitable commercial properties in the City of Yarra and the City of Port Phillip.

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D43Ldrb12rs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

It offers an extensive database of commercial properties details, including details about zoning, overlays, and demographic information.

With this platform, businesses and individuals can identify properties that align with their specific needs and requirements.

The platform also provides links to council business concierge programs, which offer additional support to businesses to ensure their smooth operations.

Commercial Property Hub is a one-stop solution for businesses and individuals looking for hassle-free access to comprehensive information on commercial properties in the City of Yarra and the City of Port Phillip.

Commercial Property Hub is a user-friendly digital platform that streamlines the process of finding suitable commercial properties in the City of Yarra and the City of Port Phillip. 

Commerical Property Lookup Hub | City of Yarra of Port Phillip

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Following on from Apartments.com.au's Top 5 Most Viewed <a href="/news/urbans-top-5-for-october-most-viewed-architects">Architects</a> and <a href="/news/urbans-top-5-for-october-most-viewed-suburbs">Suburbs</a> over the last two days, today we take a look at the Top 5 Most Viewed Local Government Area's (LGA).

Not surprisingly, looking at it in a Victorian context, the City of Melbourne takes out top spot, reflecting its status as one of the most desirable municipalities to reside within. 

The inner-city LGA's are proving the most popular with their access to employment, education, retail and dining, and well served by public transport.

<ul></ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/councils_graph_new.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="248" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/councils_graph_new.png?itok=GsdSzt2S" width="580"></a>

<figcaption> </figcaption></figure><ul></ul>
<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Melbourne%20%28City%29">1. City of Melbourne</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-council/our-profile/lord-mayor-and-councillors/Pages/lord-mayor-sally-capp.aspx">Mayor: Cr Sally Capp</a></li>
	<li>Population: 135,959 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 36.2 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 247</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Melbourne%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Yarra%20%28City%29">2. City of Yarra</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/about-us/council-people/councillors/councillor-daniel-nguyen">Mayor: Cr Daniel Nguyen</a></li>
	<li>Population: 86,657 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 20 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 163</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Yarra%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Port%20Phillip%20%28City%29">3. City of Port Phillip</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/gateway-ward-bernadene-voss.htm">Mayor: Cr Bernadene Voss</a></li>
	<li>Population: 100,863 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 20.62 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 110</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Port%20Phillip%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Moreland%20%28City%29">4. Moreland City Council</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.moreland.vic.gov.au/about-council/councillors/north-west-ward-councillors/cr-john-kavanagh-north-west-ward">Mayor: Cr John Kavanagh</a></li>
	<li>Population: 162,558 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 51 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 107</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Moreland%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Stonnington%20%28City%29">5. City of Stonnington</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.stonnington.vic.gov.au/Council/The-Mayor-and-Councillors/Mayor-Cr-Steve-Stefanopoulos">Mayor: Cr Steve Stefanopoulos</a></li>
	<li>Population: 103,832 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 25.62 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 146</li>
</ul>
Listen to our <a href="/guides">Podcast</a> with Steve <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-31-city-of-stonnington-mayor-cr-steve-stefanopoulos">here</a>.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Stonnington%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

As evidenced in the embedded maps, each of the five LGA's also have a strong development pipeline, which isn't necessarily reflected in their positions. Taking this into account the Top 5 would be:

<ol>
<li>City of Melbourne</li>
	<li>City of Yarra</li>
	<li>City of Stonnington</li>
	<li>City of Port Phillip</li>
	<li>Moreland City Council</li>
</ol>
Look out for the final piece in the series this Friday - Top 5 Most Viewed developers.
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Laurence Dragomir

Urban's Top 5 for October -  Most Viewed Local Government Areas

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Alastair runs through this week's news highlights - <a href="/news/traditional-residential-developers-cash-in-on-yarras-300000sqm-commercial-boom">City of Yarra and it's large commercial pipeline</a>, the Gold Coast's proposed ferry service and the Hurstbridge Line project proposal from the Victorian Government.

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/479975586&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=true&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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urban.com.au

Weekly Podcast: Episode 26 - City of Yarra's commercial project pipeline

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It hasn't materialised yet, but there's more than enough evidence to show that the eastern reaches of Richmond's Swan Street will become one of Melbourne's premier suburban development pockets.

The notion has been reinforced by two fresh commercial development applications that not only underpin Swan Street's looming development credentials, but those of City of Yarra's in general. The flight of developers to the municipality seeking to create 'new experience' commercial developments had been well documented of late.

Swan street though has yet to see any tangible construction activity, save for Olor Apartments. At 306 Swan Street, Olor with its 31 new apartments over 7 levels is the first salvo in a development push that will likely change the fundamental complexion of Swan Street east of Bridge Road.

Characterised by small retail and commercial premises along its flanks, Swan Street has a <a href="https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/the-area/planning-for-yarras-future/adopted-strategies-and-plans/structure-plans-and-local-area-plans">structure plan in place</a> that will allow for the transition away from an intimate small-scale streetscape to a medium and high-rise outcome, particularly so when heading east toward Burnley Station and surrounds.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image13_26.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bruce Henderson's latest alongside t-a square's effort"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_26.jpg?itok=SSwXMwVi" title="Bruce Henderson's latest alongside t-a square's effort" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bruce Henderson's latest alongside t-a square's effort</figcaption></figure>The developments in waiting are a clear indication that developers consider the area prime for renewal. Latest to enter the Apartments.com.au project database are a duo of boutique commercial developments.

439-443 Swan Street is a Bruce Henderson Architects-designed complex for Swan Street Property Pty Ltd. 10 levels is sought for the 603 square metre corner site, with a Net Leasable Area of 3,467 square metres.

A rooftop terrace and provisions for 54 vehicles and 43 bicycles are rolled into the design. Another 'pocket' development claiming a small development site is 389-393 Swan Street; t-a square architects have conceived a 9 level office complex incorporating 1,548 square metres of Net Leasable Area.

Both these projects join 345 Swan Street as being ideal smaller tenants or strata uses based upon site size and floorplate limitations.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image14_21.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Minicon have begun site works on Farmer, Cutter and Swan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_21.jpg?itok=lQWdnyJk" title="Minicon have begun site works on Farmer, Cutter and Swan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Minicon have begun site works on Farmer, Cutter and Swan</figcaption></figure>Highlighting the mixed-use nature of the emerging precinct, a quartet of developments are devoted to apartment and serviced apartment living.

Builder Minicon has taken Farmer, Cutter and Swan's 53 apartments to construction whilst Mitpit Constructions has signage up over 314-320 Swan Street. The Ewert Leaf-designed project will add private apartments, commercial office space and a sizeable serviced apartment component to the area.

Also looking to add serviced apartments is 291-295 Swan Street which went to planning during June. 

Next to launch publicly is TWO51. Backed by Blueprint Projects the pending sales campaign will launch 28 luxury apartments in to the marketplace at 251 Swan Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image22_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Swan Street's largest trio "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="480" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_18.jpg?itok=3nREoAYO" title="Swan Street's largest trio " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Swan Street's largest trio</figcaption></figure>The balance of projects destined for Swan Street are also the biggest. 

A permit is in place for the Bruce Henderson Architects-designed 370-374 Swan Street whilst 484-486 Swan Street is still at planning. Both commercial developments could add a combined 28,400 square metres of commercial office space to what is essentially a virgin area in terms of catering for major tenants with new commercial builds.

The closest precinct to see such large sized tenants drawn to the area is the Botanicca corporate park in adjacent Burnely.

Last cab off the Swan Street rank is 462-482 Swan Street with Bamfa Properties hoping to realise 200 plus apartments within dual buildings designed by Elenberg Fraser. Earlier designs for the site reached 17 levels although the current bid reaches 10 and 12 levels respectively.

Lead image: Bruce Henderson Architects
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silvermb

Future intent - profiling the impending rise of Swan Street

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Mark's <a href="/news/traditional-residential-developers-cash-in-on-yarras-300000sqm-commercial-boom">Friday article</a> on the commercial development pipeline for the City of Yarra is both impressive and worrying.  Impressive because 300,000 square metres of space, should it all be built and occupied, would represent around 20,000 new jobs contained within the municipality and worrying thanks to a lack of public transport priority, especially along the streets with tram routes.

Throw in the residential development pipeline - half of which is under construction and likely provide new homes for approximately 7000-8000 people - you have to wonder what the breaking point will be.

As Apartments.com.au user johnproctor <a href="/news/traditional-residential-developers-cash-in-on-yarras-300000sqm-commercial-boom#comment-33643">commented on Friday</a>, the 20,000 new employees/jobs figure comes from assuming that 1 employee takes up 15 square metres of total commercial space,

<blockquote>
Pretty amazing. that's roughly 20,000 workers coming to City of Yarra if it's all realised.

Will hopefully drive counter peak tram movements in the area (that are already quite strong) and should also drive high capacity on the 246 bus route linking people from the north to bigger office precinct south (Hurstbridge/Doncaster/Mernda PT users to Cremorne) and south to north (Richmond PT users to Collingwood/Abbotsford)
</blockquote>

The increased patronage and movements on the tram network are the most worrying because Victoria Street, for instance, does not have counter-peak clearways. 

At the city end there is a good quality interchange (where the emphasis is on frequency of multiple services) at Parliament station and the Macarthur Street tram stop. 

At St. Vincent's interchange and right down to Hoddle Street there is minimal priority given to trams at cross roads - especially at Hoddle Street but the worst part of the journey is beyond North Richmond Station to Victoria Gardens.

I've timed it multiple times, in both directions and at the extreme end, it's possible the journey between Victoria Gardens and Parliament station will take 20 minutes. That's a 2 kilometre trip - jogging pace.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
By the way, this is in school holidays <a href="https://t.co/nqKe5BamlQ">https://t.co/nqKe5BamlQ</a>
— Alastair Taylor (@tayser82) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/tayser82/status/1017674123982434304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2018</a>
</blockquote>

And while I deserve a slap over the wrist for being in a car at the time of taking that image above - I was the traffic - quite often I'm not and I'm one of the people travelling on one of those trams you can see attempting to crawl down Victoria Street.  In the evening peak clearways are in operation heading out of the city but the road is choked with parked cars in the counter-peak direction.

Victoria Street is only one of the major tram routes through Yarra and as Mark's article points out, the commercial development is occurring in Cremorne, Collingwood/Fitzroy - even on Hoddle Street - but what transport policies are in place to give public transport more priority in the area?

Yarra is served by the rail network from all major directions but trams and buses fighting for space on the road network are how most people get around the municipality.

Cremorne has a distinct advantage because much of the area is within a comfortable 10-minute walk of Richmond Station or East Richmond Station - and if they opened a northern entry to South Yarra station and improved pedestrian links across the river alongside the railway lines  - South Yarra would help in serving the tech &amp; marketing favoured area's employment growth.

Collingwood is serviced by the inner stations along the Hurstbridge/South Morang-Mernda railway lines but has Hoddle Street - a very pedestrian-unfriendly barrier - between the bulk of the suburb and the stations.  Like Fitzroy, Collingwood's public transport depends heavily on the radial tram routes and the cross-town smart bus routes on Johnson Street.

Tram services on Victoria Street, Brunswick Street, Smith Street, Bridge Road, Swan Street all, to varying degrees, have the misfortunate of being located within a narrow road corridor where the 'fight' over space, depicted in the tweeted image, is daily practice.

How many new office and residential buildings does it take before we see action on public transport priority on the City of Yarra's streets?

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">City of Yarra Residential Development Pipeline Status</th>
			<th scope="col">Dwellings</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Planning Assessment</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2030</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Approved</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2664</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">887</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5359</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>TOTAL</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">10,940</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Lead image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Critical_Mass_Melbourne_-_Brunswick_St.JPG">wikipedia</a>
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Alastair Taylor

Is it time to rethink on-street parking on tram routes in the City of Yarra?

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The sway toward commercial development within City of Yarra shows no signs of slowing, with Apartments.com.au tracking near on 300,000 square metres in development.

The intensifying trend continues to attract developers which have historically leaned on residential development. Latest to the fray is H&amp;F Property who is the applicant behind an 11 storey building at Abbotsford's 218-228 Hoddle Street, with a secondary frontage to Stafford Street.

Designed by Architectus, the $25 million application contains 7,389 square metres of space above three basement levels, and was submitted during April.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image41_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_11.jpg?itok=IPDT6ejE" title="Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>H&amp;F Property's bid is in addition to a bevvy of traditionally residential developers such as Caydon Property Group, Alpha14 Property Group, Pace Development Group, Beams Projects, GURNER, LK Property Group, Domain Hill Property Group and Peregrine Projects who are in the process of realising their respective first commercial developments, which all happen to fall within City of Yarra.

Add fellow development firms such as Lazzcorp, Alfasi Group, Salta Properties, Riverlee and Grocon who have a hand in active commercial developments within the municipality.

The result is an impressive 34 commercial projects on the go within City of Yarra according to Apartments.com.au's Project Database.

Planning agency Human Habitats provides a decisive overview as to why City of Yarra, in particular, is running hot with commercial development:

<blockquote>
At a local level, ongoing change in the structure of employment has begun across the City of Yarra in recent years with strong growth in property, business services, retail, and the finance and insurance sectors. This demand for employment has been welcomed considering the decline in wholesale and manufacturing sectors across the City of Yarra.

As traditional office locations such as the CBD and Docklands reach capacity, employment precincts such as Richmond/Cremorne have become increasingly attractive locations for office based employment. This location appears to cater for the continuing growth in small to medium sized business services and the ‘new economy’ employment of an increasingly skilled workforce.

The demand for additional office space is reflected in the effective rental growth in the City Fringe Areas (which include Richmond / Cremorne) which has experienced growth in the order of 20% over the year to March 2018, and which has featured a vacancy rate of below 3.5% for in excess of 18 months.

Real Estate Advisory firm Colliers are predicting that the underlying fundamentals of demand within this area are sustainable, and that demand will remain strong given Melbourne’s promising economic outlook and extraordinary population growth.
<cite>Human Habitats</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image44_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PACE Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="569" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_7.jpg?itok=VRSJUG5n" title="PACE Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray</figcaption></figure>PACE Development Group's expansion into the commercial market is via <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://maps.google.com/?q%3D51%2BLangridge%2BSt%26entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1532663610265000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFOy_B4o69T_VVVRtKPmZb_AgP0VQ" href="https://maps.google.com/?q=51+Langridge+St&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">51 Langridge St</a> in Collingwood, with the project's end value expected to surpass $25 million. 

Planning and Design Manager at Pace Development Group, Michael Holah. touches upon what makes City of Yarra an attractive proposition. 

<blockquote>
We see this striking a real chord with businesses wanting a contemporary upgrade, those priced out of suburbs such as Richmond and Cremorne, as well as those currently located in a co-working environment that have grown enough to warrant their own office space.

Unlike its CBD counterparts, this project is designed to capture the Collingwood feel and the ethos that the suburb stands for – SJB Architects has conceptualised something truly reflective of both the site’s surrounds and the cultures of the businesses that will grow here.

The smaller floor plates are exactly what the market is looking for.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image47_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_12.jpg?itok=UfKVmlU-" title="The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start</figcaption></figure>With yet more projects to be added, the Apartments.com.au Project Database tally sees 32 purely commercial projects and 2 mixed use developments listed within City of Yarra. These projects amount to some 292,100 square metres of commercial office space in development.

Only 7 developments are currently at construction and stand to add approximately 41,700 square metres of combined commercial stock, indicating that City of Yarra's commercial boom has some years yet to run.
</body></html>

Traditional residential developers cash in on Yarra's 300,000sqm commercial boom

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26-56 Queens Parade has found planning resolution, with developer GURNER gaining approval via VCAT for the site which still remains steeped in controversy.

The success at VCAT comes after a marathon planning stint, seeing local discontent, intervention from Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne and ultimately VCAT deciding call. The Fitzroy North site can now progress to redevelopment for the purposes of 263 dwellings over the sprawling site.

Buildings of eight, nine and 10 storeys are approved, a far cry from the much denser 16 storey development that initially went to planning with 476 apartments in tow.

26-56 Queens Parade's path to approval was stymied after Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne intervened three days prior to the project's initial VCAT hearing, restricting any development over the site to 10 storeys.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image26_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="26-56 Queens Parade. Image: Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26_9.jpg?itok=8lsjv6CB" title="26-56 Queens Parade. Image: Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>26-56 Queens Parade. Image: Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>In a strongly worded press release, the developer has insinuated that the move by the Planning Minister was a politically motivated exercise, owing to the development falling within the minister's electorate. Ultimately GURNER cycled through a handful of planning sets and two architects prior to finding approval.

26-56 Queens Parade and nearby developments have been vehemently opposed by residents action groups such as Protect Fitzroy North.

With approval in the pocket, developer Tim Gurner has gone on the offensive once more, berating the planning process.

<blockquote>
It has been a challenging process for us but in terms of the actual effect on the project it is insignificant compared to the costs incurred by Council, taxpayers and other stakeholders.

For the Minister to claim that a project is of State Significance to warrant intervention and waste so much time and money for an outcome that represents just a 9 percent reduction in massing is ludicrous, however we are pleased with the outcome and believe this new design will deliver on our vision a world-class precinct for the area.

We held information sessions which the locals boycotted, then accused us of being closed to discussion – it was an intense period and one that we had never encountered before.

It is imperative that strategic planning is not affected by political intervention, particularly when the Planning Minister is conflicted and using his political power to influence planning matters in in his own electorate, when developers are acting within the Minister’s own planning guidelines.
</blockquote>

Comment was sought from the Planning Minister but no response was received prior to publishing.

Further project particulars see a 450 square metre central public place which includes dining and retail spaces. GURNER and Cox Architecture's approved scheme includes 23,250 square metres of Net Sellable Area and two basement levels.

GURNER have indicated the project will initiate sales during 2019 with construction also expected to begin the same year.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image31_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site aerial and new street level finish. Images: Yarra City Council and GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_12.jpg?itok=v9B7GiQf" title="Site aerial and new street level finish. Images: Yarra City Council and GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site aerial and new street level finish. Images: Yarra City Council and GURNER</figcaption></figure>Diagonally opposite the freshly approved site, GURNER is also pushing the merits of another site at planning. A new mixed-use building at 81-89 Queens Parade is planned, accounting for a 3,201 square metre triangular site that also fronts George Street.

Cox Architecture was also tasked with design duties, including a 1,732 square metre supermarket at ground level, 4,074 square metres of commercial office space and 110 serviced apartments.

If Gurner chooses to operate the serviced apartment component directly, it would represent the developer's first foray into the field. 81-89 Queens Parade's cost of development is estimated to be just shy of $30 million.
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Resentment remains as GURNER gains approval for Queens Parade

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With the impending Victorian Architecture Awards dinner, Apartments.com.au concludes its Road to the Victorian Architecture Awards 2018 series with the North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub - the first mixed-use public building to achieve a 6-Star Green Star rating in Victoria.

The awards are presented tonight.

Designed by GroupGSA, the new library and community hub has been shortlisted for awards in sustainable architecture, public architecture and Melbourne prize categories.

The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub has been conceived as a multi-use space that supports the learning, health and well-being of the community.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-641761.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub’s lush rooftop garden. Image: Tom Hutton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-641761.jpg?itok=cr_74oL2" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub’s lush rooftop garden. Image: Tom Hutton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub’s lush rooftop garden. Image: Tom Hutton</figcaption></figure>The building is home to the City of Yarra’s International House and includes a library, maternal child health facilities, in addition to a variety of community-focused facilities. 

Named ‘Bargoonga Nganjin’ which means ‘Gather Everybody’ in Woiwurrung - the language of the Wurundjeri people - the $17 million project was funded almost entirely by Council, and was the result of an extensive and exhaustive consultation process that included multiple stakeholders and the community.

GroupGSA says the design has driven a desire to create a socially inclusive space that integrated seamlessly with its local context, but was also had a minimal environmental footprint. 

The Library’s lush rooftop garden, exemplifies the potential for environmental design to draw people together, according to the architects.

Among the Library’s environmental features are its on-site power generation and pressurised air handling system incorporated into columns instead of bulkheads to maximise overhead space.

Additionally,  the architects specified locally-sourced materials, including reclaimed bricks from the surrounding area, to ensure product miles were minimised while also maintaining the character and materiality of North Fitzroy.

The architectural language of the Library reinforces this connection to its locale, with its triangular footprint taking inspiration from the old North Fitzroy post office building.

The community building features a bespoke screening mechanism, which became an integral part of the building’s external fabric, to manage glare and natural light. The perforated metal screens allows light to filter in and out, the design of which is derived from the trees in the Edinburgh Gardens, just immediately south of the site - using the local elements as a key to inform the design.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-644529.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub. Image: Tom Hutton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-644529.jpg?itok=Vdxm8Uvj" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub. Image: Tom Hutton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub. Image: Tom Hutton</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The local people of North Fitzroy are an educated community that wanted to see a really robust sustainable outcome. We put the effort in to ensure all avenues were looked at, from energy use, to the lifecycle of the building, materials, orientation and water usage, all of those things.

We wanted to maximise the sustainable outcome of the building. “When designing this project, we took a pragmatic approach with regards to sustainability. The overarching aspect was to do all the basic elements really well in a way that related to the community and we’re really proud that this is the first time a six star green star rating has been awarded to a public mixed use building in Victoria.

To me one of the most eye catching of the green spaces is the rooftop garden. Featuring native plants and a productive garden, this area provides more than simple green respite on the site’s narrow footprint.

It has a cleverly integrated catchment system, positioned underneath the roof decking, which collects water to sustain landscaping as well as essential services for the whole building. Herbs and fruit trees on the roof supply the adjoining community kitchen, with students encouraged to pick things from the garden to use in cooking classes.

- Scott Francis, Principal, GroupGSA
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
This project exemplifies a leading approach to good sustainable design – in an environmental and social sense. Not only is it a building with leading green credentials but it has also been designed as a multipurpose and multi-generational space to support the diverse community of North Fitzroy.

The common denominator in successful projects is supportive and engaged clients who acknowledge the value that quality architecture interventions can bring to building strong and successful communities.

- Amy Muir, Victoria Chapter President of the Australian Institute of Architects
</blockquote>

Lead Image: Tom Hutton 
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Road to the Victorian Architecture Awards 2018: GroupGSA's North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub

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The completion of Dux Richmond Hill in recent days has added further weight to the strip's diversification away from being predominantly a retail zone.

In recent years Apartments.com.au has looked at the strip's retail woes, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/will-free-parking-save-bridge-road">potential solutions in fixing the faltering strip</a> and its <a href="https://urban.melbourne/planning/2015/05/06/bridge-roads-apartment-transformation-gathers-pace">drift toward apartment development</a>. Dux Richmond Hill at 153-177 Bridge Road has added a further 175 apartments, placing it as Bridge road's second largest apartment development delivered.

Developer Little Projects is mindful of the apartment wave that is providing Bridge road with a fundamental shift in how the strip is perceived.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image192.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Dux Richmond Hill by Little Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image192.jpg?itok=lNzF__Wx" title="The Dux Richmond Hill by Little Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Dux Richmond Hill by Little Projects</figcaption></figure>On the occasion of Dux Richmond Hill's completion Little Projects Development Director Leighton Pyke provided the following commentary regarding Bridge Road:

<blockquote>
New apartment buildings like Dux Richmond Hill are the catalysts for change we need to resurrect shopping strips like Bridge Road and give new purpose to its retail operations.

What we are seeing is a role reversal with residential now driving and attracting retail rather than it simply being a case of activity zones dictating development. There is genuine opportunity to be realised as new developments return foot traffic to strips that have long been starved of new blood.

Rather than trying to return them to their former glory, we should be driving the evolution of prime shopping strips like Bridge Road, Richmond, Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and Chapel St, South Yarra and reappropriating them for a new generation of residents.
</blockquote>

Little Projects notes that Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show that over 4,100 apartments have been built through established retail strips in Collingwood, Fitzroy, Northcote and Richmond since 2012, leading to a 5.5 per cent increase in the number of businesses trading along these strips.

Little Projects cite a further 3,600 apartments set for completion across these four locations by December 2020, which will further amplify the trend.

Leighton Pyke also provided comment on the type of retail tenancy supporting these new apartment developments:

<blockquote>
Yes, there is an undeniable shift in offering that needs to take place if we are to bring back beloved locations like Bridge Road but what’s exciting about this is the rich opportunities to be found here for those retailers who provide well-balanced food and service offerings that are tailored to suit the local audience

The feedback we have received is that the Dux Richmond Hill’s retail spaces are more adaptable than the traditional narrow Victorian terraces of Bridge Road, which are limiting in terms of their potential for fitouts and adaptive reuses.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/273_20-12-2017_3343.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SJB's Richmond Plaza design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/273_20-12-2017_3343.jpg?itok=s4kRiVW2" title="SJB's Richmond Plaza design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SJB's Richmond Plaza design</figcaption></figure>For Bridge Road specifically, there remains a solid pipeline of apartments in waiting. With Dux Richmond Hill complete, next to the construction starting line is <a href="/buildings/lanbruk-apartments-79-bridge-road-richmond">Lanbruk Serviced Apartments</a> at 79 Bridge Road.

Builder Minicon is charged with delivering the serviced apartment complex which will join Cobild's 10 level <a href="/buildings/frame-19-21-judd-street-richmond">Frame Apartments</a> at construction and the soon to be restarted <a href="/buildings/herbert-king-172-lennox-street-richmond">Herbert King</a>. The latter two projects are mere metres from Bridge Road.

A sweep of the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows hundreds of new apartments earmarked for Bridge Road across a further 10 developments.

Largest of these is Coles Group and Gresham Property Funds Management's approved development of <a href="/buildings/261-271-bridge-road-richmond">Richmond Plaza</a> which includes a slab of retail space and 300 plus apartments over 12 levels. Project architect notes the project's end value at $250 million.
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Bridge Road's latest development complete, what next for the rising apartment strip

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A sizeable slab of office space may be on its way to Fitzroy North as a new planning application seeks to replace a reception venue with a multi-level mixed-use building.

Moonlight Receptions at 622-636 Nicholson Street appears to have its days numbered with the development application registered with City of Yarra little more than a week ago. Rather than go down the proven path of apartments, a 10 level commercial building containing a Gross Floor Area of 16,950 square metres has been proposed.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image65_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_3.jpg?itok=BohkG5Hk" title="Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Net Lettable Area within the Artisan Architects-designed project covers 10,605 square metres. The commercial aspect of the proposal is earmarked as standard office space alongside a medical centre and associated suites.

Artisan Architects note LKG as the applicant behind the proposal, which also features a ground floor supermarket and rooftop terrace.

Three levels of underground parking will service the proposal, with its overall development value pinned at $25 million.

In its current form, the Moonlight Receptions development would create a new height precedent for the area which maintains a predominantly low-rise and historic character to Nicholson Street. Any height parallels can be drawn with two residential buildings located behind the development site in question, with both those buildings set well back from Nicholson Street.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!4v1522016700764!6m8!1m7!1s08Q1OCHRNog-CW6ueGUqOg!2m2!1d-37.78468943571484!2d144.9771944285262!3f94.73092242678996!4f5.450559616288572!5f1.52841521987171" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

Roi Apartments and EV Apartments were built over recent years and stand approximately 50-60 metres back from Nicholson Street.

North of Alexandra Parade, Nicholson Street is bereft of any noteworthy commercial developments. Over recent years, whatever suitable development sites have become available have almost exclusively become high-density residential development.

This is particularly the case north of Brunswick Road; last year Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/nicholson-streets-apartment-activity-slips-into-top-gear">highlighted nine apartment projects in development</a> along the Nicholson Street strip.
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